Israel rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan as Netanyahu demands Hamas disarm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a US-backed 15-point peace proposal for Gaza, creating a public rift with US President Donald Trump. Speaking during televised cabinet remarks, Netanyahu declared that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" previously accepted by Hamas. He stressed that the Israeli military "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed" and insisted operations would persist to counter potential threats against Israeli forces.

The rejection comes despite a scale-down in Israeli military activity under diplomatic pressure from Washington, which had touted the framework as a major step toward lasting peace. Netanyahu's firm stance underscores complex political dynamics ahead of Israel's general election on 27 October, as he navigates demands from far-right coalition partners while managing ties with the United States.

Sources: Cyprus Mail, France24, STV News, The Guardian, The Herald.